The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) made its first official participation in the Taipei Lantern Festival tonight (February 25), unveiling a lantern display themed "Light of Freedom, Promise of Prosperity" that also marks the launch of Freedom 250 activities celebrating America's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) and AIT Director Raymond Greene jointly illuminated the American-themed lantern installation during an evening ceremony. Following the lighting, the two officials exchanged gifts and posed for photos in front of the Statue of Liberty display amid a warm and enthusiastic atmosphere.
The illuminated display featured iconic American symbols including the Statue of Liberty holding her torch, a NASA space shuttle, a bald eagle soaring above the US Capitol, red bridges, and baseball elements. The installation prominently displayed "We the People" - the opening words of the US Constitution - on both the base and front panels, creating the festival's most eye-catching attraction and drawing crowds of visitors for photos.
The lantern was created by three Taiwanese artisans: Lin Yu-chu (林玉珠), Lee Kuan-yi (李冠毅), and Lee Ching-yun (李青芸), who transformed American landmarks and symbols into traditional lantern artistry. The display is currently exhibited in the friendship lantern area of the Taipei Lantern Festival.
Greene said during his remarks: "This year marks AIT's first participation in the Taipei Lantern Festival. For the United States, 2026 is a very important moment because we will commemorate our 250th anniversary. Over the past 250 years, America has upheld democracy, freedom, and innovation. Through shared values with Taiwan, we have built a very friendly partnership. This year, our theme is Light of Freedom and Promise of Prosperity - freedom of speech, cooperation, and reconciliation. We especially want to thank the mayor and the Taipei City Government, and the Tourism Administration."
Chiang said: "I want to thank Director Greene for inviting me to participate in the AIT lantern lighting. Today's lighting ceremony has special significance - not only is it AIT's first participation in the Taipei Lantern Festival, but it also celebrates America's 250th anniversary. Through today's Taipei Lantern Festival, we are not just exchanging culture through lanterns, but demonstrating the deep friendship of Taipei. 250 years ago, America pursued freedom, equality, democracy, and human rights in establishing the nation, and continues to spread these precious values worldwide through cultural, municipal, and people-to-people exchanges. Today, through lanterns, we continue to tell this story and experience this very moving moment. On the other hand, Taipei and the United States have had very close exchanges in recent years, whether in municipal affairs, technology, economic trade, or cultural education."
Earlier in the evening, Chiang, Greene, and other officials also illuminated a 10-meter-tall Transformers Optimus Prime main lantern at the Yuanshan Expo Park area, officially opening the Taipei Lantern Festival. The display featured light shows, smoke effects, and over 40 surrounding special effect lights synchronized with Transformers theme music, creating a spectacular presentation that attracted large crowds of visitors and fans.
The annualTaipei Lantern Festival is traditionally one of the most anticipated cultural events around the Lantern Festival period, attracting countless citizens and tourists. AIT's first participation, combined with the craftsmanship of three Taiwanese lantern artisans, has given this year's festival a unique character that combines international perspective with local warmth.
